A daring heist unfolded in San Jose, California, as thieves targeted Tofu’s Trading, a local trading card store, making off with over 35,000 Pokémon cards.
The unusual break-in, captured on surveillance footage, showcased the burglars’ covert entry tactics and swift operation.
Burglars’ Sneaky Break-In at Tofu’s Trading
Tofu’s Trading co-owner, Amy Simpson, described the incident as unexpected, with the thieves seemingly unfamiliar with the store’s layout and inventory.
The surveillance footage revealed the thieves breaking into the store around 2 am, one even crawling on the floor to avoid detection. Despite the presence of a fridge blocking the side door, the burglars managed to enter.
The thieves, with faces covered, quickly rummaged through the store, leaving before the police arrived. Simpson remarked on the lack of a targeted approach, indicating that the thieves seemed unaware of what to take, suggesting a lack of familiarity with the hobby.
Amid the heist, the burglars made away with the Pokémon cards and the cash register. However, they overlooked a special collection of cards set for release just two days later.
Simpson humorously addressed the incident in an Instagram post, emphasizing the correct release date for the highly anticipated cards.
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Humor and Resilience After Pokémon Heist
Tofu’s Trading took a light-hearted approach to the situation, posting an edited video on Instagram featuring sound effects and graphics.
The store estimated the stolen items’ value to be tens of thousands of dollars. Despite the setback, the post conveyed resilience, emphasizing the community’s support for the local hobby store.
The Pokémon card heist at Tofu’s Trading not only underscores the rising popularity and value of trading cards but also highlights the audacity of thieves targeting niche markets.
The store’s response, combining humor and resilience, resonates with the community, reflecting a determination to continue serving local enthusiasts. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses and the importance of community support in overcoming such setbacks.
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